How Should You Transcribe Numbers?

Transcribing numbers can seem confusing, especially if you are just starting out or want to make sure every detail is accurate. If you wonder when to write numbers as words or digits, the rules in this guide will help. This article will cover the basics of transcribing numbers, some important rules, common challenges, and tips for special cases like dates, times, and currencies.

The Basics of Transcribing Numbers in Audio Recordings

Accurate number transcription matters. A single error can change the meaning of a document or transcript. Here are some simple rules for writing numbers when transcribing audio:

• Write out numbers from one to nine as words ("one," "five").
• Use digits for numbers ten and above ("10," "15").
• Always double-check a speaker’s words to ensure correctness.

Good listening skills and careful typing are key to catching the right number.

Key Rules for Writing Out Numbers in Transcription

Transcribing numbers means following a few widely accepted rules:

• Use numerals for percentages: Always write "10%" not "ten percent".
• Juxtaposed numbers: When numbers appear next to each other, write one in words and one in digits. Example: "Two 4-hour breaks".
• Ages, measurements, and statistics: Use numerals for all ages, measurements, and data points ("The patient is 42 years old", "6 kilograms", "a 40% increase").
• Consistency: Always apply the same rule throughout a transcript.

These principles are commonly followed in most transcription services (2022).

Common Challenges When Transcribing Numbers

Numbers may sound simple, but transcribing them comes with obstacles. Common challenges include:

• Words vs. numerals: Style guides may vary, so you may need to check whether to use "six" or "6".
• Unclear pronunciation: Poor audio, accents, or background noise can make numbers hard to catch, especially in large or group recordings.
• Homophones: Words like "two," "to," or "too" can be misheard or mistyped, changing the meaning.
• Different numbering systems: Some people use the Indian system ("lakh," "crore"), while others use millions and billions (2023). Always clarify which system your audience uses.
• Decimal and comma placement: Americans write "1,000.00" while Europeans often write "1.000,00". This can lead to mistakes, so always use your client’s preferred format.
• Transcribing dates: Is "03/04" March 4th or April 3rd? Use the format your audience will understand best.
• Currency conversions: Making mistakes here can have big impacts, especially if exchange rates change often.

Addressing these challenges is key to accurate automated transcription (2023).

Tips for Transcribing Dates, Times, and Currencies

Dates, times, and currencies require special attention. Use the tips below for better results:

Dates

• Be consistent. Pick a format and use it for the entire document.
• Avoid numbers-only dates (e.g., "03/07/2024"). Spell the month to prevent confusion ("March 7, 2024").
• Follow the format your audience expects (American: month/day/year; British: day/month/year).

Times

• Use the 24-hour clock for clarity, unless the context or client wants 12-hour time.
• Always include the time zone if your content spans different regions.
• Example: "13:00 CST" or "1:00 p.m. Central Standard Time".

Currencies

• Always write the currency symbol or code with the amount ("$100" or "USD 100").
• Do not assume – spell it out once if needed ("100 Canadian dollars (CAD)").
• Stay consistent with currency use throughout the whole document.

These tips improve both clarity and accuracy, which is a major benefit for audio translation (2024).

Best Practices for Legal and Medical Transcription of Numbers

Legal and medical transcripts have their own sets of rules. Here are best practices to follow:

• Follow the house style or specific guidelines: Each law firm or hospital may have style guides for how to write numbers. Always check these before starting the transcription.
• Cardinal numbers (quantity): Write "one" to "nine" as words, "10" and above as digits ("twenty" or "20").
• Ordinal numbers (order): Use a mix of text and number: "1st", "2nd", "3rd".
• Time in legal/medical documents: Write out the full time and include "a.m." or "p.m." if using the 12-hour clock ("2:45 p.m.").
• Units of measure: Always use standard abbreviations, and stay consistent ("mg" for milligrams, "km" for kilometers).
• Telephone numbers: Use a clear, accepted format with dashes, spaces, or parentheses for clarity ("(800) 555-1234" or "+1 800 555 1234").

These standards support error-free transcripts for areas where accuracy is crucial, such as healthcare and law (2023).

Advanced Tips: Proofreading and Translation

• Always proofread the final transcription, especially numbers, as these are a common source of error.
• Use transcription proofreading services if you need a second set of eyes.
• For non-English audio, consider text translation services or expert human translators, since numbers can differ across languages and systems.

Transcription Solutions Tailored for Any Need

If you want accurate transcription of numbers for interviews, legal paperwork, medical records, or global content, GoTranscript offers easy-to-use solutions. Our AI transcription subscription, expert closed caption services, and flexible subtitling services help you transcribe, proofread, and translate every word and number. Visit our website to check transcription pricing, compare captioning services pricing, or order transcription and order captions today.

With practice and the right support, transcribing numbers will become simple and instinctive. Trust GoTranscript to make your transcripts accurate and professional.